Brown captains the Bhoys as they look to defend their Scottish Premier League title and progress in the Champions League, and the club’s boss is keen for his star player to be rested to prevent injury.

Lennon said: "Ideally I would like him to be left out of that because we have a heavy schedule of games.

"Scott has proved beyond doubt that he is good enough to play for Scotland, he is playing the best football of his career this season.

"He did come back from the Scotland trip not in the best condition but we half-expected that and there is no blame apportioned but I think if there is an opportunity for him to have a break then we will be asking for that."

Lennon did state that some of his other players would not be withdrawn for the friendly against Luxembourg.

He added: "Charlie [Mulgrew], Kris [Commons] or James [Forrest] won't be withdrawn but Scott is on ongoing issue.

"James has a bit of a hamstring strain and I am hoping he will be okay for the weekend but the rest of the guys are fit and, if they are selected, we won't stand in their way."